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Taiwan Worldwide Insurance / Taipei Health Insurance News |
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Taipei is the capital of Taiwan and its largest city, with a population that exceeds 2.6 million. Over the past three decades Taiwan has seen vast economic expansion which has enabled the government of Taiwan to strengthen the national infrastructure and become an important international business center.
In 1995 the Taiwanese government introduced the universal National Health Insurance (NHI) program. The strength of the Taiwanese economy has grown and the government of Taiwan has made inroads into establishing the healthcare system - it is now available for all Taiwanese citizens.
Funding for the NHI comes from employee taxes and government funding, which has enabled the healthcare system in Taiwan to significant improve; due to funding it provides for the healthcare sector. Expatriates who reside in Taiwan for longer than 4 months, and who are legally allowed to stay, must join the NHI programme. However, it is still strongly advised you have adequate Taipei expatriate health insurance in place, especially if your business often takes you traveling, to safeguard you from all medical eventualities.
The majority of hospitals in Taiwan are private and as a result of this there is usually not a lengthy waiting period for treatment or referral. The NHI programme subsidizes medical costs but there remain co payments and some limits to the coverage of some healthcare treatment you can receive under this government run scheme. Patients have the freedom of choice to decide which medical provider they consult with. If you do require medical care in Taiwan you are advised to take your passport to the healthcare provider for registration.
The healthcare facilities operate on a “pay as you use” system, so you are advised to take sufficient funds with you. It is also recommended that you take out Taipei international health insurance that is appropriate for you and your family.
The healthcare in Taipei is regarded as good and the majority of private and public healthcare facilities in the city meet high standards. The introduction of the NHI programme has lead to an increase in medical professionals working in the healthcare sector and improvement in the medical facilities available. In 2004 it was estimated that medical care was accessible to 99% of the population in Taiwan. Expatriates and foreign visitors to Taiwan need to be aware that only registered Taiwanese citizens are entitled to the public medical care in the country. If you are not enrolled in the NHI while seeking medical treatment, you are responsible for all healthcare costs.
The standard of healthcare in Taipei is excellent, in both private and public healthcare facilities, therefore expats and visitors in the city can be confident in the medical care available. The international healthcare providers in Taipei who cater for expatriates and foreign holidaymakers are; Taiwan Adventist hospital, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Wang Fang Hospital and The National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH).
Taipei is a city which can meet the healthcare demands for expatriates and holidaymakers requiring basic or serious medical treatment. You can be confident that modern medical equipment is available in Taipei and communication will be in English. You are advised that before relocating to Taipei, or visiting the city, you take out Taipei international health insurance to cover any treatment you may require. Comprehensive international medical insurance will protect you from exorbitant medical costs that may arise during the duration of your stay in Taipei.
There are no major health issues in Taipei, but as an expatriate who is new to the country there are a few steps you should take to prevent illness. Avoid drinking tap water, unless it has been boiled for more than 3 minutes and do not eat uncooked meat or fish - this could result in food poisoning. If you do suffer from persistent diarrhea consult a doctor.
If you plan to travel to the southern region of Taiwan you should be aware that dengue fever is present; it is important to protect yourself from mosquitoes as they spread disease. If you do become ill with dengue fever, it is imperative you receive medical treatment as soon as possible; if left untreated it can result in hemorrhagic fever (DHF). You will bleed internally and externally and your body will go into shock - which can be fatal.
It is advised when traveling to Taipei with a pre-existing medical condition that requires regular medication that you have adequate supplies to cover your stay in the city. It can be difficult to obtain certain western medication in the country. It is also recommended that all medication is clearly labeled with the generic name and also that you obtain a letter from your doctor documenting the need for this medication.
If you are an expatriate, and registered with the NHI programme, the charge for medical treatment will be lower. However, there is still a cost to be paid, and if you require extensive medical care the final bill can be very expensive. The healthcare that is provided in Taipei is costly due to the excellent quality that is available for medical treatment. You are advised to obtain Taipei international health insurance before you enter Taiwan to ensure you are covered for any potential medical situation.
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Taiwan Worldwide Insurance |
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The quality of healthcare facilities in Taipei is very good, and as a foreigner in the city you can be assured that you will receive professional medical treatment. However, this quality of medical care is expensive and can run to thousands of dollars. It is paramount you are covered with full Taipei worldwide insurance with health coverage. If your visit is short term, or if you are a working expatriate, there are policies designed to meet, and suit your needs, while you are in Taipei.
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